Registered Nurse / Arkansas
2026 data Arkansas board official source

Arkansas Registered Nurse License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

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Provides patient care, administers medications, and coordinates with physicians. Requires NCLEX-RN exam.

What the Arkansas data shows for Registered Nurses

Arkansas's path to registered nurse licensure runs through 2,243 hours of approved instruction and a passing score on NCLEX-RN, plus a criminal history screening before applicants younger than 18 can be licensed. Arkansas folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Associate or Bachelor of Science in Nursing".

Upfront cost is $75, with renewal running $50 on a 2-year cycle. Expect roughly 3 weeks of processing once a complete application is submitted. Maintaining the license requires 15 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

On reciprocity, registered nurses should know: NLC Compact: 41 states allow multistate practice.

Licensing Requirements in Arkansas

Education / Training Hours
Associate or Bachelor of Science in Nursing
2,243 hours
Exam Requirement
NCLEX-RN
Required
Initial License Fee
$118
Renewal Fee
$80
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
30 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years

Cost & Timeline

Initial License Fee
Application + first-year license
$75
Renewal Fee
Every 2 years
$50
Processing Time
After complete application submitted
3 wks
Continuing Education
Per 2-year renewal cycle
15 hrs
Compare fees across all states for Registered Nurse →

Compare & Explore

Compare all states for Registered Nurse All Arkansas licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Arkansas licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Registered Nurse in Arkansas? ▼
Arkansas requires 2243 education/training hours, passing an exam (NCLEX-RN), and an initial fee of $118. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Registered Nurse in Arkansas? ▼
Certification as a registered nurse in Arkansas means clearing the state's checklist: 2243 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Arkansas licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Registered Nurse license to Arkansas from another state? ▼
For registered nurses, the reciprocity landscape looks like this: NLC Compact: 41 states allow multistate practice. Many professions are also covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability between states. Contact the Arkansas licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does Arkansas require a background check for Registered Nurse licensing? ▼
Arkansas does require a background check before issuing a registered nurse license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Registered Nurse in Arkansas? ▼
Licensed registered nurses in Arkansas must complete 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $80.
How much does it cost to get a Registered Nurse license in Arkansas? ▼
The initial licensing fee in Arkansas is $75. The renewal fee is $50 every 2 years. Processing typically takes 3 weeks after submitting your complete application.
How long does Registered Nurse license processing take in Arkansas? ▼
In Arkansas, license processing for registered nurses typically takes approximately 3 weeks after your complete application is submitted. Processing times may vary based on application volume and completeness of documentation.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.